The Federal Government has said it will seek compensation from the South African government for Nigerians who were forced to abandon businesses and properties during recent anti-immigrant protests in the country.
Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, disclosed the plan while speaking on the return of hundreds of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa, according to Channels Television.
Ajayi said the Nigerian government would engage South African authorities to pursue compensation for citizens who suffered financial losses after fleeing the unrest.
He also rejected claims that most Nigerians living in South Africa are undocumented, insisting that the majority entered the country through legal channels and have valid immigration status.
The envoy’s remarks came after another batch of evacuated Nigerians arrived in Lagos following weeks of anti-immigrant demonstrations and rising tensions targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
The Federal Government has continued efforts to evacuate affected citizens while working through diplomatic channels to address their welfare and seek redress for losses incurred during the crisis.